Macon Mayor Robert Reichert and Bibb County Commission Chairman Sam Hart held a joint news conference to hail approval of consolidation and talk about the future.

Reichert said both men are "thrilled" that Macon and Bibb County voters approved the city and county merger Tuesday.

"It's a new day," Reichert said.

Both men also said they were disappointed that Central Georgia voters rejected a transportation SPLOST -- a penny sales tax to fund regional projects.

They spoke about the transition team that is supposed to plan the merger. Both men are members of the team is supposed to start its work in September.

The consolidation will take effect on Jan. 1, 2014.

Hart and Reichert also talked about their concerns for city and county employees and said they don't think workers will lose jobs or pay because of the merger.

Reichert said City-County employees are "on our hearts, on our minds," adding, "You will be treated fairly."

Hart discussed the transition team, which will be a blend of elected officials and appointed members.

 

He said, "The group that's put together has to be representative of this entire community... so we can get off to a smooth start in 2014."

But Hart noted that he won't continue on that team after this year unless he's re-elected chairman in November. He faces Republican challenger Tom Wagoner.

He drew laughs when asked if he would run next year for mayor of the combined city and county by saying, "I'm running for chairman of Bibb County Commission."

Reichert would not say whether he'll run for mayor under the new system, saying he'll concentrate in coming months on planning a smooth merger and a "50-year vision."

"It can be the most effective use of my time," he said.

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